Ranked fifth largest in the world, the aerospace Industry in Canada directly employs more than 80,000 Canadians from coast-to-coast and over 150,000 Canadians through indirect and induced employment, according to a comprehensive study concluded by Deloitte consulting last fall. In addition, more than 45 per cent of direct aerospace jobs are located in the greater Montréal area which is home to the third largest aerospace industry cluster in the world.

"Our expertise makes us the envy of the world. Moreover, the daily achievements of the women and men working in this sector are crucial to our world leadership in several sub-sectors throughout the aerospace value-chain," stated Dr. Claude Lajeunesse, President and CEO of the AIAC. Mr. Lajeunesse went on to note, "we are also very pleased with the Prime Minister's recognition of the importance of our industry as a provider of high paying, knowledge economy and advanced manufacturing jobs, not only here in Montréal but all across Canada."

Making the most of the government's decision to acquire 65 Joint Strike Fighters is critical to the future creation of high-quality aerospace jobs in the Montréal area. "The AIAC remains committed to realizing the benefits of this important procurement decision. Outstanding opportunities for Canadian industry are developing as we speak. We encourage all stakeholders, including Members of Parliament in the greater Montréal area, to work with the industry, so that together, we can make the most of those opportunities." concluded Dr Lajeunesse.

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